Walburga Hemetsberger

Global Solar Market Outlook: What is Powering Sustained Solar Growth Around the World?

After another record year for global PV installations in 2025 - largely driven by China - the outlook for 2026 is more complex. Policy shifts in China, political headwinds in mature markets and rising geopolitical tensions are altering growth dynamics, while emerging markets are showing accelerated growth on the back of low-cost modules. This session brings together leaders from major solar markets to assess risks, opportunities and strategies in the context of sustained
global expansion.

Key topics:

• Launch of the Global Solar Market Outlook 2026-2030
• China's new solar strategy and policy
• Growth drivers in emerging markets
• Positioning solar in a shifting geopolitical landscape

When Power Becomes a Target - Building Resilient European Energy Systems Through Solar, Storage and Grid-Forming Technologies

In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Europe's energy systems are facing increasing physical
and cyber threats. Strengthening resilience has become a strategic priority. This session explores how solar PV, battery storage and grid-forming technologies can protect critical infrastructure, enhance system stability and support rapid recovery after disruptions.
Drawing on lessons from Ukraine and Europe's frontline states, experts will be discussing how decentralized renewables can contribute to energy security.

Key topics:

• How solar, battery storage and renewables contribute to Europe's energy security
• Lessons from Ukraine on system resilience and recovery
• The strategic role of solar-plus-storage in future security planning
• Integrating security into energy system design and regulation

When Power Becomes a Target - Building Resilient European Energy Systems Through Solar, Storage and Grid-Forming Technologies

In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Europe's energy systems are facing increasing physical
and cyber threats. Strengthening resilience has become a strategic priority. This session explores how solar PV, battery storage and grid-forming technologies can protect critical infrastructure, enhance system stability and support rapid recovery after disruptions.
Drawing on lessons from Ukraine and Europe's frontline states, experts will be discussing how decentralized renewables can contribute to energy security.

Key topics:

• How solar, battery storage and renewables contribute to Europe's energy security
• Lessons from Ukraine on system resilience and recovery
• The strategic role of solar-plus-storage in future security planning
• Integrating security into energy system design and regulation